Mark's Blog

30 October 2008

Classics...

Rolling back the years… well… four of them to be exact.  That was the last time we held a whisky tasting in Leamington Spa. The Angel Hotel had been the venue for many a memorable tasting, so it seemed only fitting that we returned there once again.

The evening was hosted by my very good friend and all round whisky legend Colin Dunn.  Colin and I have worked together in the past and he played a significant part in developing my knowledge and love of great whisky.  Colin now works for Diageo as the premium and luxury brands ambassador for Malt whisky and Johnnie Walker.

The tasting was based around the Classic malts and their Distillers editions counterparts.  The sequence was as follows…  Clynelish 14 yo, compared with Clynelish Olorosso Seco finished.  Talisker 10 yo compared with Talisker Amoroso finish.  Caol Ila 12yo compared with Caol Ila Cask strength. Then finishing with Lagavulin 16yo compared with Lagavulin PX finish. My absolute favourite of the night was the Clynelish Distillers edition.

The whole evening was a great success, with Colin delivering an action packed and Theatrical dialogue, which sets him apart from anyone else in the business.

If you ever get a chance to attend one of his tasting make sure that you go. The 60 people who had booked tickets lapped it up as well as a significant amount of fine malt. This was soaked up by the traditional fayre of Haggis, neeps and tatties. It was great to see so many old friends and lots of new faces too.  I really look forward to holding many more tastings in Leamington.

Slainte,
Mark.